ArtHaus releases anthology chronicling slam poetry era at Elks Lodge

ArtHaus has unveiled an anthology book, featuring a collection of works performed at the Elks Lodge from 2009 to 2014 during ArtHaus-hosted poetry slams. The book titled "Live from the Elks: An ArtHaus Anthology," offers a nostalgic journey into the vibrant poetry scene that once echoed through the halls of the Elks Lodge. This literary compilation showcases the diverse talents of local writers who played a pivotal role in shaping artistic expression in Decorah during that period. "The anthology represents the commitment of both northeast Iowa and Luther College to the literary and performing arts," the book's editor, Keith Lesmeister said, "the writings represented in the anthology were originally performed at the ArtHaus Poetry Slams, which means much of the work was conceived for the stage -- to be performed. It also speaks to the overwhelming amount of writerly talent here in northeast Iowa." The Elks Lodge acted as a backdrop for an enthralling collision of people, words, sights, and sounds that linger in the memories of those who experienced it. The intimate space, adorned with a small stage, a disco ball, dusty wooden floors, and the elk head mounted on the north wall, created an unforgettable atmosphere. The presence of a giant wooden "applause-o-meter" (controlled by whomever was hosting at the time) only added to the unique energy that made these poetry slams so iconic for the community. "The impetus for the anthology was an effort to do two things: raise money for a wonderful arts organization, ArtHaus, and to record recent Decorah history," Lesmeister explained, "The poetry slams don't take place as regularly as they once did, but for those who attended those events at the Elks circa 2009-2014, they remember the energy, the excitement, and just the sheer number of people who paid witness to such fun, transformative, and memorable evenings. Those were special events, which consisted of a raw vulnerability, surprising content, and a feeling of genuine community. I hope the anthology in some small way pays tribute to those evenings at the Elks." Many of the contributing writers still call Decorah home, and their powerful words continue to resonate with the community at poetry slams which are now held at a rotating selection of locations. All proceeds from "Live from the Elks: An Arthaus anthology" will go toward sustaining ArtHaus and its mission to promote and celebrate the arts in Decorah. Copies are available at Arthaus and Dragonfly Books .